The Suffering Podcast

Kevin Donaldson

Adversity is the common thread throughout the lives of all living human beings. This human condition can either make us or break us. Nothing great comes easy and it's the overcoming of adversity that makes us who we are. Living by the ethos Suffering is THE way to sustainable success and the path to greatness. Always remember Mike Failace.

  1. Episode 276: The Suffering of A Father's Death with Travis Miragliotta

    6D AGO

    Episode 276: The Suffering of A Father's Death with Travis Miragliotta

    Send us Fan Mail On November 28th, 2006, my father took his own life in front of me by a self-inflicted knife wound. I was 15. He was a passionate outdoorsman who loved to hunt, fish, and trap since he was a little kid growing up in East Rutherford. In 2017, my father’s youngest brother, John Miragliotta, attended a suicide prevention walk wearing a name tag that read “Team Buffalo.” He told me about it on my birthday that year while we were sitting by his pool and said he wanted to do something meaningful in my dad’s memory. Together we decided to create an outdoor brand — Team Buffalo Outdoors — to carry my father’s passion forward and share it with the outdoor community. When I lost my father, all the outdoor fun and the connection with his family and friends seemed to disappear. At first, I saw TBO as a way to find my way back and reconnect with those relationships. What I didn’t expect was how many incredible people we would meet and how many new memories we would create through this community — memories that would never have existed if we hadn’t started. Through this journey, I’ve learned that getting through suffering requires releasing that energy in a positive direction, through the things you’re most passionate about. Our extended family embodies that same resilience. Our cousin Peter Miragliotta and his wife Jackie endured the devastating murder-suicide of their daughter, Michelle Sabia, in a domestic violence incident in 2016. Afterward, they adopted her three children, and Peter now serves on the board of the Center of Hope and Safety, dedicating his life to education and prevention so other families don’t have to experience that kind of loss. Appearing on the Suffering Podcast on what would have been my father’s 67th birthday is a meaningful full-circle moment. Team Buffalo Outdoors stands as a living tribute to him and to the belief that suffering, while it leaves a permanent imprint, does not have to be the end of the story. By sharing openly, building community, and honoring those we’ve lost through action, our family continues to find purpose on the other side of pain. Our story is about transformation — choosing connection, meaning, and hope where there was once only grief, and making memories one outdoor adventure at a time. Youtube: https://YouTube.com/c/teambuffalooutdoors  Website: www.teambuffalooutdoors.com Shop: https://team-buffalo-outdoors.square.site Instagram: @teambuffalooutdoors Facebook: Team Buffalo Outdoors Center of Hope and Safety: https://www.hopeandsafetynj.org Find The Suffering Podcast The Suffering Podcast Instagram Kevin Donaldson Instagram Apple Podcast Spotify Support the show The Suffering Podcast Instagram Kevin Donaldson Instagram TikTok YouTube Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    1h 3m
  2. Episode 274: The Suffering of School Funding with Jeanne Howe and Bill Koch

    MAR 15

    Episode 274: The Suffering of School Funding with Jeanne Howe and Bill Koch

    Send us Fan Mail This episode features two long-time Jefferson Township leaders whose careers reflect a shared commitment to student growth, community, and leadership. Jeanne Howe brings more than 31 years of experience in education, beginning as a science teacher and rising through roles including Assistant Principal, Middle School Principal, Assistant Superintendent, and now Superintendent. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Earth and Atmospheric Sciences from Rutgers University and a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from New Jersey City University. Throughout her career, Jeanne has focused on building environments where students can thrive academically, socially, and personally, while supporting educators and staff who serve the Jefferson Township community every day. Joining her is Bill Koch, the Athletic Director at Jefferson Township High School since 2018. Bill spent a decade teaching Physical Education and Health at Jefferson Township Middle School before moving into athletic administration, including a year as Athletic Director in Montville Township. He earned his undergraduate degree from Springfield College and a Master’s in Educational Leadership and Education from Centenary University. A lifelong coach, Bill has led cross country, wrestling, and boys lacrosse programs and remains active in youth sports. Beyond school, he is a husband to his wife Nicole and a proud father of three—Olivia, William, and Amelia. Together, Jeanne and Bill offer a unique perspective on education, leadership, athletics, and the impact schools have on the lives of students and families. Find The Suffering Podcast The Suffering Podcast Instagram Kevin Donaldson Instagram Apple Podcast Spotify YouTube Support the show The Suffering Podcast Instagram Kevin Donaldson Instagram TikTok YouTube Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    59 min
  3. Episode 273: The Suffering of The 10 Commandments of Friendship with Bobby Crudele

    MAR 8

    Episode 273: The Suffering of The 10 Commandments of Friendship with Bobby Crudele

    Send us Fan Mail Friendship isn’t built in comfort—it’s forged in pressure, tested in silence, and proven when things get ugly. In this episode of The Suffering Podcast, Kevin Donaldson sits down with Bobby Crudele to break down The 10 Commandments of Friendship—not the Hallmark version, but the real, unspoken rules learned through betrayal, loyalty, growth, and hard-earned respect. This conversation cuts deep into: What true loyalty actually looks like when life falls apartThe difference between proximity friends and battle-tested friendsWhen to fight for a friendship—and when to let it goWhy honesty can cost you people, and why that cost is worth payingHow suffering reveals who’s really standing next to youThese commandments weren’t written in peace. They were carved out of conflict, mistakes, silence, and survival. Kevin and Bobby speak candidly about the friendships that saved them, the ones that failed them, and the ones that demanded uncomfortable truth instead of easy validation. If you’ve ever questioned who’s really in your corner… If you’ve ever outgrown people you once needed… If you’ve ever been the friend who stayed when it would’ve been easier to walk away… This episode is for you. 🎙️ Listen. Reflect. Share with someone who’s earned their place in your life. 💬 Comment with the commandment that hit you hardest. 🔔 Subscribe to The Suffering Podcast for raw conversations about pain, loyalty, growth, and the human cost of becoming who you’re meant to be. Find Bobby Crudele Instagram https://www.instagram.com/bobbycrudele/ Find The Suffering Podcast The Suffering Podcast Instagram Kevin Donaldson Instagram Apple Podcast Spotify YouTube Support the show The Suffering Podcast Instagram Kevin Donaldson Instagram TikTok YouTube Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    1h 12m
  4. Episode 272: The Suffering of The Resilient Warrior with Mike Morgan

    MAR 1

    Episode 272: The Suffering of The Resilient Warrior with Mike Morgan

    Send us Fan Mail Mike Morgan is a 30 yr medically retired police officer veteran who worked for both the Atlanta & Suffolk County, NY PD's. Approximately 1 yr after retirement, Mike was watching a Shawn Ryan podcast episode featuring guest Eddie Penney, a former Navy SEAL when he realized that the feelings (Anger, rage, depression general unhappiness) he had been experiencing post retirement were some sort of PTSD that he had suffered during the course of his career.  Mike knew he needed help but was unsure of what modality to utilize, but eventually settled on psychedelics.  After journeying with Ayahuasca in early March 2024, he transformed his life during the course of a weekend. He realized that his life's purpose was to go forth and help other first responder's/military veterans heal their PTSD and trauma issues.  He started a podcast, The Resilient Warrior Nation to do just that, and has just completed a book, The Resilient Warrior, which is also heavily focused on childhood trauma that he believes, originally propelled him into policing as a career.  Website: The Resilient Warrior Nation Find The Suffering Podcast The Suffering Podcast Instagram Kevin Donaldson Instagram Apple Podcast Spotify YouTube Support the show The Suffering Podcast Instagram Kevin Donaldson Instagram TikTok YouTube Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    1h 6m
  5. Episode 272: The Suffering of an Actor with Garry Pastore

    FEB 22

    Episode 272: The Suffering of an Actor with Garry Pastore

    Send us Fan Mail Garry Pastore is a seasoned actor whose impressive career spans over four decades in film and television. Most recently, Garry guest starred as Arnold White in the highly anticipated Peacock original series Long Bright River (2025), starring Amanda Seyfried and Nicholas Pinnock. Currently, he captivates audiences in the trending Paramount+ series First Shift (2024), where he plays Valente, a maniacal mob boss. Filming for First Shift will continue in New Jersey through September 2025. Throughout his extensive career, Garry has been a prominent presence in numerous blockbuster TV series, including The Blacklist, The Deuce, The Sopranos, Blue Bloods, Billions, Boardwalk Empire, Power, Law & Order, Hit & Run, Seven Seconds, Gotham, and many more. On the big screen, Garry's filmography is equally remarkable, with standout roles in iconic movies such as The Irishman, Wolf of Wall Street, Rob the Mob, The Week Of, Last Call, The Yards, Who's Jenna, as well as fan favorites like Goodfellas, Carlito's Way, Donnie Brasco, A Bronx Tale, Cop Land, The Siege, Do the Right Thing, Cocktail, Prizzi's Honor, and many others. His film and television credits now exceed over one hundred, and his prolific career shows no signs of slowing down. Recently, Garry has ventured into new territory, moving away from his signature mobster and law enforcement roles. He has been cast as Father McCarthy, a beleaguered Irish priest, in the upcoming gothic horror film Hellbound Covenant (2025), where he faces a demonic force threatening his clergy. Beyond acting, Garry is also pursuing a passion for writing, directing, and producing. Having already found success with his personal projects Waiting for Budd and Destressed, he continues to create compelling screenplays for the big screen, with plans to bring some of his projects into production before the end of the year. Find Garry Pastore IMDb  Instagram Find The Suffering Podcast The Suffering Podcast Instagram Kevin Donaldson Instagram Apple Podcast Spotify YouTube Support the show The Suffering Podcast Instagram Kevin Donaldson Instagram TikTok YouTube Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    1h 16m
  6. Episode 270: The Suffering of Anxiety with Karl Ross

    FEB 15

    Episode 270: The Suffering of Anxiety with Karl Ross

    Send us Fan Mail Karl Ross and his sister, Cheryl, were born at the U.S. Navy Hospital in Portsmouth, Virginia. They spent their early years in Kentucky until their father was discharged from the Navy, after which the family moved to New Jersey to be closer to his mother’s side of the family. During Karl’s early years, his parents divorced and went their separate ways. Karl was raised on welfare and food stamps until his mother, through hard work and dedication while attending college, graduated from Bergen Community College and secured a position with the county elections office. In the early 1980s, Karl began coaching while also becoming involved in the fire department. During this time, he met his wife, Nancy, at their high school while she was still a junior. Karl and Nancy have been married for 41 years and have three children and six grandchildren. Karl went on to serve in the fire department, retiring in 2007 after many years of service. Throughout his fire service career, he held numerous officer positions and ultimately rose to the rank of Chief of the Department in 1997. Karl began coaching football at the local recreational level in 1983 and eventually served as both head coach and president of the program for several years. During that time, he coached in 14 Super Bowls, winning eight. He later advanced to the high school level, where he coached teams to six state sectional titles in football and baseball, winning five of them, in addition to capturing seven league championships. Karl retired from his professional career in 2020 after 34 years of service with the Carlstadt Department of Public Works. In his later years, he has faced significant personal challenges, including cancer affecting his immediate family beginning in 2014. He lost his younger sister, Cheryl, in 2019, followed three months later by his stepfather, Richard, in August 2019. In November 2019, his mother, Barbara, was diagnosed with cancer and passed away in 2021. In December 2023, Karl himself was diagnosed with cancer and continues to battle the disease today. Find Karl Ross Instagram Instagram Find The Suffering Podcast The Suffering Podcast Instagram Kevin Donaldson Instagram Tom Flynn Instagram Apple Podcast Spotify YouTube Support the show The Suffering Podcast Instagram Kevin Donaldson Instagram TikTok YouTube Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    1h 10m
  7. Episode 269: The Suffering of Domestic Abuse with Salvatore Poccia

    FEB 8

    Episode 269: The Suffering of Domestic Abuse with Salvatore Poccia

    Send us Fan Mail Salvatore Poccia just wanted a simple family life, but what he got instead is the stuff of nightmares. He experienced the subject that men just don’t talk about. Male domestic abuse is real. Male domestic violence is real. And far too often, it goes unheard. This video addresses the uncomfortable truth that many men experience abuse behind closed doors—emotional, psychological, physical, and financial—while being told to “man up,” stay quiet, or assume the blame. Shame, disbelief, and stigma keep countless men trapped in silence, convinced their pain doesn’t qualify as abuse. Abuse does not have a gender. Victims do not have a single face. In this conversation, we confront the myths surrounding male victims of domestic violence, explore how manipulation and control often replace visible bruises, and discuss why men struggle to seek help. If you’ve ever felt isolated, doubted, or dismissed while living in an abusive relationship, this video is for you—and for those who need to understand what male abuse truly looks like. This is not about blaming. This is about recognizing. This is about giving language to suffering that’s been ignored for too long. If this resonates with you or someone you care about, you are not weak—and you are not alone. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please contact local emergency services or a domestic violence hotline in your country. Help is available. Find Salvatore Facebook Find The Suffering Podcast The Suffering Podcast Instagram Kevin Donaldson Instagram Tom Flynn Instagram Apple Podcast Spotify YouTube Support the show The Suffering Podcast Instagram Kevin Donaldson Instagram TikTok YouTube Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    1h 10m
5
out of 5
79 Ratings

About

Adversity is the common thread throughout the lives of all living human beings. This human condition can either make us or break us. Nothing great comes easy and it's the overcoming of adversity that makes us who we are. Living by the ethos Suffering is THE way to sustainable success and the path to greatness. Always remember Mike Failace.

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